nov 21, 1620 - Mayflower
Compact
Description:
Aboard the Mayflower on its voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, a contract was signed. This contract was written by the male passengers which consisted of Puritans and non-puritans. All of these men were leaving England for a reason. The Mayflower Compact was the first governing document of the Plymouth Colony. This document was a signed agreement to ensure peace between the two groups. The document specified basic laws and social rules for the new colony and served as a foundation for the democratic structure of the settlers. The Mayflower Compact has much significance in that it contains extremely important concepts that helped to shape America.
There is much significance with the signing of the Mayflower Compact since it was written aboard a ship heading to the New World. Some of the things outlined in the document include that it was based on the concept of majority rule, it stated that the adult males, not including servants, would have the right to vote on issues, and finally, the Mayflower Compact is often cited as one of the foundations of the US Constitution setting a precedent as the foundational document for the Plymouth Colony.
Added to timeline:
US Government ~ History of Government Timeline
Date:
